Kyrie debuts new shoe honoring parents' Boston connection
Kyrie Irving debuted a special new sneaker for the start of the NBA Finals on Thursday night.
The Dallas Mavericks star sported a custom Anta KAI 1 Speed "Twin Flame" that pays tribute to his parents, Drederick and Elizabeth Irving, and their connection to Boston University, according to ESPN's Nick DePaula. The shoe was designed with help from Irving's father.
As Kyrie Irving returns to Boston, the “Twin Flame” KAI 1 Speed theme celebrates his parents meeting at Boston University, where Drederick played basketball and Elizabeth played volleyball.
— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) June 6, 2024
The toe embroidery honors Elizabeth’s Native American heritage. https://t.co/S33Zl4rbmw pic.twitter.com/4eCfJYQaFe
Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported earlier this week that Drederick inked a deal with Irving's Anta line, marking the first time an athlete has signed their dad to a sneaker contract.
Drederick played college basketball at Boston University from 1984-88 and ranks third on the program's all-time scoring list with 1,931 points. He had his No. 11 jersey retired by the school in 1988 and was inducted into the BU Athletic Hall of Fame.
Irving also has a connection to Boston, having spent two seasons with the Celtics from 2017-19.
The Celtics defeated the Mavs 107-89 to take Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Game 2 is set for Sunday in Boston.